BISMARCK, N.D. - Applications for a teacher incentive program aimed at retaining elementary and secondary teachers will be accepted by the North Dakota University System Office beginning April 1, 2009. The application deadline is June 30, 2009.

The Teacher Shortage Loan Forgiveness Program will reduce student loan indebtedness by $1,000 per year up to a maximum of three years for teachers who work at a grade level or in a content area identified as a teacher shortage area by the superintendent of public instruction. Eligibility begins after completion of one year of teaching in North Dakota, but teachers may have earned their degrees in other states. Information about the types of student loans eligible for forgiveness is available on the NDUS Web site at the address below.

The Teacher Shortage Loan Forgiveness Program was introduced by Gov. Hoeven and approved by the North Dakota Legislature during the 2001 Legislative Session. Additional information and the loan application form are available on the NDUS Web site at www.ndus.edu. Click on "Student and Parent Information," then "Financial Aid." Applications also may be obtained by calling the NDUS Office at 701.328.2960 or by writing to 600 East Boulevard Avenue - Dept. 215, Bismarck, ND 58505-0230.